Mammals
Blackbuck
Antilope cervicapra · also called Indian antelope
Racing across open grassland at a pace few predators can match, a blackbuck male displays the deep brown-black coat that comes with maturity, its tightly spiralled horns among the most distinctive of any antelope in the world.
Overview
The blackbuck, Antilope cervicapra, is a fast, grassland-dwelling antelope native to the Indian subcontinent. Its dramatic age-related colour change in males, ranking among the fastest land animals on Earth, and long, tightly spiralled horns make it one of the most visually striking and athletically impressive antelope species found anywhere in South Asia.
A recovery written into every herd
The blackbuck’s current widespread presence in protected grassland reflects a genuine recovery from historical decline, a reminder that sustained protection can bring even a heavily hunted species back from serious trouble.
Status
Least Concern, having recovered substantially in many protected areas across the Indian subcontinent following historical declines.
Blackbuck: common questions
Why do male blackbuck turn black as they age?
This species shows males darkening to a deep brown-black colour as they mature, a change linked to age and hormonal maturity that creates a striking contrast against their white underparts.
How fast is the blackbuck?
This species is ranked among the fastest land animals on Earth, capable of sustained high speeds that help it evade predators across open grassland.
How long can blackbuck horns grow?
This species has males growing long, tightly spiralled horns that can reach well over half a metre in length, among the more distinctive horn shapes found on any antelope.
Has the blackbuck always been common?
No, this species historically declined sharply due to hunting and habitat loss, though populations have since recovered substantially in many protected areas across the Indian subcontinent.